The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

Why Fast Downhills Scare the Spandex Off Me As an experienced cyclist, I live for the grind of uphill climbs. But let me be honest: steep downhills terrify me. Once I hit around 40 mph, my brain goes full panic mode. My hands clamp the brakes like they’re life preservers, and my internal monologue sounds like a cartoon character yelling, “YIKES!” all the way down. I know plenty of cyclists who fly down hills like it’s nothing. Total respect to them—but I’m not built that way. Still, I’ve learned to manage my fear with some solid downhill biking techniques that keep me safe, in control, and maybe just a little less petrified. Tip #1: Make Sure Your Bike Is Descent-Ready Before you even think about pointing your wheels downhill, give your bike a full safety check. Look over your: Brakes (both front and rear) Wheels and spokes Tire pressure and tread If anything feels off, I don’t guess—I take it to a bike shop. Going downhill fast is no time to test fate with...

I am posting this article in the middle of the summer even though it is about winter cycling. There is a good reason for that. By the time Google indexes this post and it gains traction in Google's organic searches, it will be winter and that is why it is being posted in July. Cycling in cold weather can be a challenging experience, especially when it comes to keeping your extremities warm. In particular, the ears, fingers, and toes are the most vulnerable parts of the body during cold rides. To make your winter cycling experience comfortable and enjoyable, it is essential to invest in the right gear to keep these body parts warm and protected. In this article, we'll take a look at the three most important things to have well covered on cold rides and recommend some products from Amazon that can help you stay warm and comfortable on your winter rides. Ears The ears are one of the most sensitive areas of the body when it comes to cold weather. Exposing them to cold wind can caus...

Cycle touring is a popular activity among cyclists of all ages, but it can be especially rewarding for seniors who have the time and resources to embark on longer journeys. However, cycle touring can also be daunting for seniors who may be unfamiliar with planning and preparing for extended bike trips. In this article, we'll offer tips and tricks for planning and enjoying a cycle touring adventure. Choose Your Destination The first step in planning a cycle touring adventure is to choose your destination. Consider factors such as climate, terrain, and cultural attractions when selecting a location. It's also important to choose a route that matches your level of fitness and experience. If you're new to cycle touring, consider starting with shorter, less challenging trips before embarking on longer journeys. Prepare Your Bike Before setting out on your cycle touring adventure, it's important to prepare your bike for the journey. Make sure your bike is in good condition an...

Cycling shorts are an essential piece of equipment for any serious cyclist. Not only do they provide a level of comfort that regular shorts can’t match, but they also help prevent chafing and skin irritation. However, it's not just a matter of putting on any old pair of cycling shorts and hitting the road. There is a proper way of wearing cycling shorts that will help you get the most out of them. In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the proper way of wearing cycling shorts. Choose the right size The first and most important step to wearing cycling shorts properly is to choose the right size. Cycling shorts should fit snugly without being too tight. If they're too loose, they'll bunch up and cause discomfort, while if they're too tight, they'll restrict movement and circulation. Make sure to refer to the manufacturer's sizing chart to determine the right size for you. Get the right style There are two main styles of cycling shorts: bi...

If you're a regular cyclist or just starting out, keeping a log of your rides can be a great way to track your progress and keep yourself motivated. Whether you're cycling for fun, fitness, or commuting, there are a variety of benefits to keeping a record of your rides. Why Keep a Log of Your Rides? Track Your Progress: By logging your rides, you can keep track of how far you've ridden, how fast you've gone, and how long you've been cycling. This information can help you set goals and track your progress as you become a better cyclist. Motivation: Seeing your progress and achievements can help keep you motivated to continue cycling. It can also be satisfying to look back at your rides and see how far you've come. Safety: Keeping a log of your rides can also help you stay safe. You can note any potential hazards you encountered on your ride, such as a busy intersection or a pothole, and avoid them in the future. Plan Future Rides: By keeping a record of your r...

From Overweight to On Fire: My No-Fad Cycling Comeback I've been seriously riding a bicycle for over 50 years. I’ve completed more long-distance tours than I can count, and I've taken part in well over 100 single-day cycling events. But even with all that mileage behind me, I’ve never looked like the "typical cyclist" people imagine. Despite consistently riding 5,000+ miles a year , I always carried extra weight. Nutrition wasn’t something I thought much about—until 2018 , when I decided I’d had enough. I jumped on the keto diet , and it worked. I lost 48 pounds , dropping to 182 lbs on my 6'0" frame. But here's the thing: I didn’t feel good at that weight. My energy tanked, and my endurance—despite the miles—just wasn’t there. Keto may work for some, but it wasn’t sustainable for me. I started easing off the diet and eventually settled at around 195–200 lbs . That’s when I started feeling strong again. In 2020 , I rode 962 miles across Texas , from ...